I Exchanged My Own Fitness Coach for AI – And It's Working.
Leah Walsh
Following a festive period filled with indulgent treats and downtime, numerous individuals head into January looking to get their fitness back on track.
But, is it possible that AI be changing the world of exercise by offering an alternative to human coaches?
Tailored Programs and Flexible Schedules
Leah Walsh employed an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the Cardiff Half Marathon.
This young woman from Aberdare explained she appreciated the freedom to pose queries any time of day – something she felt was unavailable with a personal trainer.
Leah relied on an AI-powered fitness application that gave her personalised plans with audio coaching and pace setting for her inaugural long-distance race in recent years.
She explained she requested it to design a plan combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an multi-week plan tailored to her event day and objectives.
Leah then adjusted the schedule to suit her lifestyle, which she said was convenient.
Subsequently, she chose a different tool because it was more affordable and she could consult it at any time. She finished a full minute quicker than her goal time.
She said she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.
"With artificial intelligence you have to find your own drive, which I quite like," she added.
A weightlifter
Significant Strength Improvements
In a similar case, Richard Gallimore, 23, from Swansea, has been using artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and reported he has never felt stronger, boosting his chest press from 70kg to 110kg.
Richard resorted to a bot for help after being forced to walk a race.
"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he said.
The free tool constructed a workout and diet plan tailored to his aims, and established structured routines.
"I work out for about two hours a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.
The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Traditional Training
A recent study in the previous year compared prices for numerous of the largest fitness chains and found the typical monthly fee was approximately forty pounds a month, based on basic memberships.
Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.
According to further data, personal trainers set their own rates, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute appointment outside London and about a similar range in the capital.
Clients will often use a trainer once or twice a week and collaborate for a few months, however these arrangements are often adaptable.
A personal trainer
The Irreplaceable Human Touch
Personal trainer Dafydd Judd, from the Welsh capital, said artificial intelligence can be useful to speed up progress, but believes it will never replace the human connection and responsibility that live training provides.
The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, specialises in senior clients and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned a number of his trainees also use AI.
"In my opinion it's extremely useful, additional information is positive," he said.
"I think the more people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the warmth from the comprehension that is missing from a computer," he added.
Dafydd explained AI can inform clients and make guidance more effective.
But, he said true dedication comes when people appear in person for their sessions.
"As useful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.
In the view of many, he said, the fitness center is a space to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.